Advanced Micro Devices has announced its new central processing unit (CPU) that is officially aimed at enthusiasts and gamers who dare to overclock and tweak their systems. The new processor from the Black Edition lineup comes with unlocked multiplier, which allows to easily set it working at higher clock-speed, getting additional performance virtually for free.

The AMD Athlon 64 X2 processor 5000+ Black Edition is an affordably-priced, dual-core processor targeted to the consumer channel, boasting a customizable clock multiplier for tunable performance, enabling mainstream end-users to reap the benefits of setting their own speed limits, a statement by the world’s largest maker of x86 central processing units maker reads.

AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition microprocessor works at 2.60GHz, features dual-channel DDR2 memory controller, 1MB of level-two cache (512KB per core) and is compatible with socket AM2 mainboards featuring 1000MHz HyperTransport bus. The chip has 65W thermal design power and is made using 65nm process technology.

The customizable clock multiplier and auto-adjustable memory frequency of the new chip enables amateurs and value-conscious enthusiasts to maximize the performance of their desktop computers without substantial hassles. Typically enthusiasts have to increase base HyperTransport bus speed from default 200MHz, which eventually causes not only CPU clock-speed boost, but also alters HT bus and memory frequency, meaning that other components apart from the microprocessor also should be able to handle increased speeds. Previously customizable clock multiplier were only available on high-end AMD Athlon 64 FX processors that could retail for as much as $1000 per chip.

Given that not all enthusiasts may want to invest additional money into high-end mainboard, memory modules and spend additional time ensuring that all components work well enough, AMD’s Black Edition processors Athlon 64 X2 6400+ and 5000+ do seem to be appealing solutions for overclocking. Since nowadays computer enthusiasts and gamers tend to acquire CPUs from Intel Corp., AMD crucially needs to attract attention of those groups with attractive options.

AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition processors will only be available in channel market. The chips will come as processor-in-box (PIB) package, but without cooling systems. The Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition microprocessors cost $136 in 1000-unit quantities, up slightly from $125, the cost of typical model 5000+.Source: X-bit Labs

While this is a very cool chip, why does AMD even bother advertising a last-gen chip? All chips should be unlockable anyway, more control for the user.
I wish I went from s754 to AM2 instead of s939. I want the new stuff!!!!

Me too pb.:( I'm itching to buy a new system... The wait is driving me to constantly push my Opteron further. It can't take much more. I'll probablly go and blow some cash on a new water cooling setup. :( I mean:D

I think it's odd the new black edition is so low with the specs (first was 6400+..... now a 5000+?) and I'm not terribly sure what makes a die shrink equate to a gamer's/OCer's chip, but It could be a very good performer regardless, and is sure to be pretty cheap.

Just too bad it will be completely overshadowed by quads and Core 2 procs.

by: erockerMe too pb.:( I'm itching to buy a new system... The wait is driving me to constantly push my Opteron further. It can't take much more. I'll probablly go and blow some cash on a new water cooling setup. :( I mean:D

had a dream last night i was off buying 1337 DDR2 ram for my phenom setup, thats how bad its getting! its starting to invade my dreams!!! :eek:

by: XooMnah, its legitimately old tech; the core architecture has changed very little in what... 4 years?

FSB increased from 400MHz (Banias) to 1600MHz (Stoakley), added 64 bit extensions (Core2), more IPC, 4 times as many cores(Kentsfield, Clovertown, etc), 4 way capable(Tigerton), SSE3, SSSE3 and SSE4(Penryn) just to name a few

by: DanTheBanjomanFSB increased from 400MHz (Banias) to 1600MHz (Stoakley), added 64 bit extensions (Core2), more IPC, 4 times as many cores(Kentsfield, Clovertown, etc), 4 way capable(Tigerton), SSE3, SSSE3 and SSE4(Penryn) just to name a few

I think he was talking about the core architecture of AMD cpus. AKA: K8

by: WeerAll K8 chips use the same flaw in the design - can't get above 3.0Ghz. It has nothing to do with the power envelope.

65nm on the 6000+ is the same as 80nm of the X1950 Pro - lowers temps, nothing more.

I can't believe that you are saying a 6000+ cannot get above 3.0GHz. I can hit 3.4 with mine on air. That's with cheapie xms2 ram! Runs all 3Dmark apps & wPrime, etc.... stable.
I would love to get one of these 65nm chips, but I'll wait for the quads. Really wish the 6000+ was an unlocked 65nm , just imagine that!